Embryo-transfer

The transfer of the embryos in the uterus is a relatively simple procedure, unpainful, which is performed, usually, after 48-72 hours from the harvesting of oocytes, ambulatory or by being hospitalized for a few hours.

It is necessary to have a full urinary bladder in the moment of embryo transfer, and 30 minutes before the procedure the nurse will administer an antispasmodic intramuscular injection.

After 48-72 hours from the harvesting of oocytes the embryo transfer is performed. The procedure is unpainfull and consists in the insertion of a thin catheter which contains embryos in culture medium through the uterine cavity. Complete evacuation of the catheter is immediately verified by the embryologist and then the ultrasound confirmation of the presence of transfer medium in the uterus is observed.

After the embryo transfer a little sanguinolent liquid or air might be released. There is nothing to be worry about this.

The couple decides the number of transferred embryos. A large number of embryos enhance the chances of embryos implantation, but also the risk of a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.) of. Usually, 2-4 embryos are transferred, and the remaining quality embryos can be cryopreserved, on demand, for a number of years. A subsequent preserved embryos transfer does not require all the previous stages, but only a simple implantation preparation of the uterus.

After the embryos transfer you will begin a daily progestative treatment which can be through injection, oral, local or combined.

Blood analysis in order to verify pregnancy is performed after 11-12 days from the embryo transfer.

If the pregnancy exists, it will be ultrasound confirmed and evaluated after two weeks. You will continue the hormonal treatment for another 6-8 weeks.

If the pregnancy does not exist, the treatment is interrupted and you should make a telephone appointment with IVF team in order to analyze the results and future possibilities.

If you have preserved embryos you can make an appointment for the next embryo transfer. The period between embryo transfer and pregnancy test does not require severe restrictions. It is recommended to get back to your normal activity which will take your mind away from the stress of waiting.